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UNIVERSITY  OF  CALIFORNIA 

C.  P.  HUNTINGTON 

cJUNE.   1897. 
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SAN  FRANCISCO 
VEREIN. 


Christopher 
Columbus. 


A  Romantic  Opera, 


Saturday, 
October  29,  1892 


Christopher 
Columbus. 


A  ROMANTIC  OPERA  IN  Two  ACTS 
AND  AN  INTERLUDE. 


WRITTEN  AND  COMPOSED  BY  MEMBERS  OF  THE 
SAN  FRANCISCO  VEREIN. 

MUSIC  BY  WM.  HINZ. 
LIBRETTO  BY  HUGO  WALDECK. 


San  Francisco  Verein, 

Saturday,  October  29,  1892. 


Steure,  muthiger  Segler!    Es  mag  der  Witz  dich  verhohnen, 

Und  der  Schiffer  am  Steu'r  senken  die  lassige  Hand. 
Immer,  immer  nach  West!    Dort  muss  die  Kiiste  sich  zeigen  .    .    . 

—SCHILLER. 


COPYRIGHT    APPLIED    FOR. 

ALL   RIGHTS   RESERVED. 


PRESS    OF 

S.     CROCKER     COMPANY 
SAN     FRANCISCO 


Characters  of  the  Opera. 


FERDINAND,  King  of  Spain. 

ISABELLA,  Queen  of  Spain. 

FERNANDO  DE  TALAVERA,  The  Archbishop  of  Granada. 

IvUis  DE  ST.  ANGEL,  Treasurer. 

CHRISTOPHER  COLUMBUS. 

ALONZO  DE  OJEDA,   A  Captain  in  the  Army. 


)wing  to  lack  of  time  portions  of  the 
printed  dialogue  will  not  be  spoken. 


There  will  be  no  intermission  between 
the  First  Act  and  the  Interlude. 


COLUMBIA. 
COLUMBUS. 


FIRST  ACT.— SPAIN. 

INTERLUDE.— ON  BOARD   THE   SANTA  MARIA. 

SECOND  ACT.— THE  ISLAND  OF  GUANAHANI. 

TIME.     1492. 


Characters  of  the  Opera. 


FERDINAND,  King  of  Spain. 

ISABELLA,  Queen  of  Spain. 

FERNANDO  DE  TALAVERA,  The  Archbishop  of  Granada. 

Luis  DE  ST.  ANGEL,  Treasurer. 

CHRISTOPHER  COLUMBUS. 

ALONZO  DE  OJEDA,   A  Captain  in  the  Army. 

JUANITA,  A  Flower-Girl,  betrothed  to  Alonzo. 

MICHAEL,  An  Irish  Soldier  in  the  Spanish  Army. 

FRIAR  BOYLE. 

CAONABO,  Cacique  of  Guanahani. 
ANAKAONA,  His  Wife. 
GUACA,  His  Adviser. 
BUHITI,  An  Indian  Priest. 
HIGUENAMOTA,  An  Indian  Girl. 

Court  Ladies,  Courtiers,  Friars,  Acolytes,  Flower-Girls,  Soldiers,   Pages, 
Dancers,  Populace,  Herald,  Messenger. 

Indian  Warriors  and   People. 


Characters  of   the  Interlude. 

COLUMBIA. 

COLUMBUS.  /       "OF  THB 

UNIVERSITY 


FIRST  ACT.— SPAIN. 

INTERLUDE.— ON  BOARD   THE   SANTA  MARIA. 

SECOND  ACT.— THE  ISLAND  OF  GUANAHANI. 

TIME.     1492. 


i. 


Santa  F6  in  the  valley  of  Granada. 
An  open  place  in  front  of  a  cathedral. 

[Enter  JUANITA  and  Flower-Girls.] 

Chorus  of  FLOWER-GIRLS. 

When  tempests  have  blown 

The  flowers  bloom  brightest ; 
When  danger  is  flown 

Our  hearts  are  lightest. 

From  thralldom's  blight 
Our  homes  are  delivered  ; 

And  the  Moslem's  might 
Is  crushed  and  shivered. 

Where  the  battle  roared 
Now  peace  is  resting  ; 

Where  the  eagle  soared 
The  dove  is  nesting. 

The  victor's  voice 

Is  subdued  in  prayers : 

Then  let  us  rejoice 

With  our  enemies'  slayers  ; 

Arid  join  in  their  praise 

Of  the  heavenly  powers  ; 
And  strew  the  ways 

Of  our  heroes  with  flowers. 
For  flowers  bloom  brightest 

When  tempests  have  blown  ; 
And  hearts  are  lightest 

When  danger  is  flown. 


6 


Ju ANITA.  Maidens,  up  and  let  us  perch 

On  the  steps  of  yonder  church. 

( 'A  FAUNA.  From  this  elevated  station 

We  command  the  situation. 

LOLA.  King  and  Queen  are  both  in  here 

Holding  early  mass. 

MERCEDES.          Let  us  wait  till  they  appear. 

ROSITA.  Aye,  and  when  they  pass, 

When  the  people  sing  and  cheer, 
In  their  path  we  scatter  showers 
Of  sweet  flowers. 

YNEZ.  Look,  the  soldiers  come.     Away  ! 

From  our  task  they'll  make  us  stray. 

CARMELITA.         Nay,  I  pray,  let  us  stay. 
ESTRELLA.  Listen  to  what  they  will  say. 

[Enter  ALONZO  DE  OJEDA,  MICHAEL,  RODRIGO,  Soldiers  and  Populace.] 

ALONZO  AND  SOLDIERS;   Chorus  and  Solo. 

The  bugle  is  silent,  the  sword  is  sheathed, 

The  soldiers  are  homeward  returning  ; 
The  camp  is  deserted  where  Freedom  breathed, 

And  Valor  for  strife  was  yearning ; 
For  the  enemy's  hosts  are  captive  and  slain, 
The  intruder  is  driven  from  sunny  Spain. 

Alas,  of  the  fold  that  set  out  brave  and  bold, 
The  cause  of  their  country  embracing : 

Where  the  battle  roll'd  and  the  death  knell  toll'd 
Full  many  their  story  of  gallantry  told 

By  the  blood  they  spill'd  and  the  graves  they  fill'd, 

A  hero's  death  fearlessly  facing. 

Our  ranks  are  breaking,  and  comrades  part, 
For  the  ties  of  war  peace  must  sever ; 

Those  friends  whom  joint  dangers  endeared  to  the  heart 
Perchance  will  leave  us  forever  ; 

Hut  whither  the  soldier  may  wander  and  roam, 

God  grant  him  the  blessings  of  love  and  of  home. 


MICHAEL. 

Saint  Patrick,  give  us  the  comforts  of  home ! 

A  goodly  song,  a  strong  and  pious  song. 

Here's  to  the  comforts  of  home  ! 

By  all  the  saints,  this  tastes  like  home-made  comfort, 

And  comforts  me  down  to  my  very  toes. 

Beso  su  mano,  senorita. 

How  now,  have  I  been  talking  to  my  shadow  ? 

[Approaching  CATALINA.] 

Carissima  senorita,  le  saludo. 

CATALINA. 

Vaya  se,  no  me  moleste. 

MICHAEL  (approaching  Lola.) 

Alma  de  mi  corazon  querida  mia. 

LOLA.       Hagame  el  favor  de  dejarme  en  paz. 

MICHAEL. 

I  am  "  de  drop,"  as  they  would  say  in  France ; 
My  name  is  Dennis  in  Green  Erin's  tongue. 
Faith !     Dennis  has  the  drop  on  you,  me  lads, 
Albeit  he  has  a  drop 
That  beats  the  love  of  twenty  Spanish  females. 

MICHAEL  (Drinking  Song). 

When  Spanish  dames  turn  up  their  noses 
And  dainty  hands  refuse  me  roses, 
When  I  am  left  without  companions 
Or  had  to  feast  on  bread  and  onions, — 
I  drain  my  cup  in  mild  despair 
And  find  prodigious  solace  there. 

Then  fill  me  up 
A  goodly  cup, 
For  I  admire 
The  sparkling  fire 
That  doth  recline 
In  Spanish  wine. 


a 

The  wine  of  Spain  is  full  of  flame, 

So  is  the  average  Spanish  dame ; 

But  she  is  apt  to  scathe  and  scratch  us, 

Whereas  the  wine  will  soothe  and  patch  us ; 

The  dame  is  unreliable, 

The  wine  is  sweet  and  pliable. 

Then  fill  me  up 
A  goodly  cup, 
For  I  admire 
The  sparkling  fire 
That  doth  recline 
In  Spanish  wine. 

Chorus.  To  his  drunken  railings  listen — 

Hear  him  swagger. 

See  with  wine  his  glances  glisten — 

Watch  him  stagger. 

For  he  admires 
The  sparkling  fires 
That  glow  and  shine 
In  Spanish  wine. 

[ALONZO  and  JUANITA  come  forward.]    Duet. 

JUANITA.  The  Virgin  daily  I  implored 

To  bring  thee  safely  back  from  danger 
Her  name  be  praised,  thou  art  restored, 
Delivered  from  the  grim  avenger. 

ALONZO.  Of  thee,  my  love,  I  fondly  thought 

In  silent  camp  and  stirring  battle ; 

At  night  into  my  dreams  were  wrought 

Thy  smiling  face  and  merry  prattle. 

JUANITA.  Now  promise  nevermore  to  fling 

Aside  the  claims  of  love  and  beauty. 

ALONZO.  I  am  a  soldier  of  the  King 

And  must  obey  the  call  of  duty. 

Sweetheart,  banish  fear  and  sorrow, 
And  conclude  a  truce  with  pain ; 
Care  must  slumber  till  to-morrow, 


Ju  ANITA. 

ALONZO. 

Ju  ANITA. 

ALONZO. 

JUANITA. 


ALONZO. 
JUANITA. 


And  to-morrow — 
Aye,  to-morrow  ? 
Sweetheart,  we  will  love  again. 

Sweetheart,  let  me  kisses  borrow, 
All  thy  lips  to  give  will  deign 
Lend  me  kisses  till  to-morrow, 

And  to-morrow — 

Aye,  to-morrow? 
I  will  give  them  back  again. 

Love  requited, 

Reunited, 

Does  not  know 

What  is  woe. 

Life  assumes  its  warmest  hue 
For  all  lovers  who  are  true. 

Behold  their  Majesties  draw  near. 

From  holy  mass  they  are  returning. 
Alonzo,  I  must  leave  thee  here. 

To  go  with  thee  my  heart  is  burning. 

Nay,  loved  one,  I  must  say  farewell, 
This  day's  sweet  duty  to  pursue, 
Arid  flowers  in  the  path  to  strew 

Of  Ferdinand  and  Ysabel. 

The  Saints  attend  thee. 
The  Virgin  defend  thee. 


Flourish  of  trumpets.  [Enter,  from  the  cathedral,  FERDINAND  and  ISABELLA 
FERNANDO  DE  TALAVERA,  Luis  DE  ST.  ANGEL,  FRIAR  BOYLE,  and  attend 
ants.] 


Chorus  of  Men. 


Mark,  he  approaches,  our  country's  defender — 
Hail  to  our  hero,  who,  brave  to  the  core, 

Wrested  Granada,  the  city  of  splendor, 
From  the  grasp  of  the  merciless  Moor. 


10 

Chorus  of   Women. 

Let  us  unite,  loyal  homage  to  render 

Unto  our  Queen  whom  her  subjects  adore. 
Mother  of  Mercy,  protect  and  defend  her — 

Sweet  Isabella — forevermore. 

Together.  Glory  immortal  and  love  true  and  tender, 

August  couple,  for  you  we  implore — 
You  who  were  chosen  by  Heaven  to  render 
Spain  to  her  rightful  possessors  of  yore. 

Hail,  all  hail  to  the  Glory  of  Spain ! 

Span-is  h  Dance. 
FERDINAND. 

We  thank  you,  faithful  subjects.     Such  display 
Of  loyalty  befits  this  glorious  day. 

Behold  from  proud  Alhambra's  pinnacle 

Our  banners  float — enchanting  spectacle! 
The  stronghold  of  the  Infidel  is  won  ; 
The  standards  of  Castile  and  Aragon 

Have  been  once  more  by  victory  attended. 

Our  holy  faith,  by  gallant  hosts  defended, 
Now  rules  supreme  throughout  united  Spain, 
Forever  wrested  from  the  Saracen. 

The  struggles  which  filled  centuries  with  blood 

At  last  are  ended  by  the  grace  of  God ; 
And  where  the  Mosque  had  reared  the  Crescent's  dross, 
The  Church  shall  stand,  surmounted  by  the  Cross. 

Where  Havoc  reigned  and  Strife  her  scorpions  flourished, 

Art,  Industry  and  Science  shall  be  nourished  ; 
And  Progress  marshal  us,  with  wings  unfurl'd, 
To  lead  alike  in  war  and  peace  the  world. 

aiun-u*.          Hail,  all  hail  to  the  Glory  of  Spain! 

[Exeunt  Flower-Girls,  Soldiers  and  Populace  ] 

ISABELLA.  Those  who  would  lead  the  world,  my  Liege, 

Must  understand  its  ways  ; 
We  heeded  not  in  fray  and  siege 
The  issues  of  these  days. 


11 


Thought  is  aroused,  research  set  free, 
New  truths  flash  on  mankind ; 

Invention  and  discovery 

Transform  the  human  mind. 

While  we  our  ancient  realm  restored 
In  hard-fought  victories, 

Our  neighbors  conquered  and  explored 
New  lands  and  distant  seas. 

In  power  great,  in  spirit  bold, 
Is  Spain  to  stand  aside? 

Shall  those  the  rank  of  vassals  hold 
Who  have  been  born  to  guide  ? 

FERDINAND.         Deem  not  that  foreign  conquest's  dearth 

Spain's  greatness  can  efface ; 
Among  the  nations  of  the  earth 
She  will  assert  her  place. 

But  thou  whose  counsels  oft  before 
In  court  and  camp  held  sway, 

To  empire  and  renown  once  more, 
My  Queen,  show  us  the  way. 

Aria. 
ISABELLA.  From  where  the  gentle  zephyrs  blow, 

Beyond  the  Western  Sea, 
Where  silent  twilight's  roses  glow 
The  promised  land  must  be. 

"  The  Star  of  Empire  takes  its  way" 

Toward  the  setting  sun  ; 

Beneath  the  lustre  of  its  ray 

Our  laurels  will  be  won. 


FERDINAND.        But  name  the  leader  who  shall  guide 
Our  fleets  and  armies  through  the  tide ! 

ISABELLA.  Christopher  Columbus ! 

He  is  the  man  to  wield  our  sword 
And  bear  the  standard  of  the  Lord. 


12 

Of  pious  heart  and  ardent  zeal, 

Devoted  to  his  master, 
No  fitter  hand  could  guide  our  keel 

Past  danger  and  disaster. 

Wherever  ship  has  set  her  sail 
There  did  Columbus  travel ; 
And  problems  at  which  others  fail 

His  genius  will  unravel. 
Then  let  Columbus  wield  our  sword 
And  bear  the  standard  of  the  Lord. 

FERNANDO  DE  TALAVERA. 

Victorious,  most  Christian  Majesties, 

Unto  the  voice  of  timely  warning  hearken, 

Ere  you  proceed  in  this  important  cause. 

The  Junta  which  his  Grace,  the  King,  convened, 

Composed  of  just  and  wise  and  pious  men, 

Rejected  the  proposals  of  Columbus ; 

And  I  am  grieved  to  see  this  visionary, 

This  all  but  heretic  and  idle  schemer, 

This  foreign  pauper  and  adventurer, 

Still  has  access  unto  the  councils 

Of  my  illustrious  Queen. 


Luis  DE  ST.  ANGEL.  Forbear  to  pass 

Such  hasty  judgment,  worthy  Talavera. 

Columbus,  though  he  be  a  foreigner, 

Is  not  a  heretic  or  idle  schemer. 

The  Junta — with  all  rev'rence  be  it  said — 

Misunderstood  and  underestimated 

His  lofty  plans  and  daring  calculations. 

He  has  been  villified  and  sorely  wronged ; 

He  has  been  fed  on  empty  promises 

Until,  reluctantly  and  sorrowful, 

He  turned  his  back  upon  this  faithless  court 

And  even  now  is  on  his  way  to  France. 

Among  the  men  who  represent  this  age, 


13 


Which,  like  a  wakening  giant's  limbs  unbending, 

Breaks  through  the  barriers  of  our  ancient  world, 

Removes  its  boundaries  beyond  the  seas 

And  breathes  new  life  into  its  tottering  wisdom, 

He  is  one  of  the  foremost  and  the  bravest. 

Such  faith  as  his,  such  hope  born  of  conviction, 

Will  bear  him  onward  to  his  goal  withal; 

And  Spain  will  weep  that  she  hath  spurned  the  hand 

Which  would  have  laid  an  empire  at  her  feet 

And  wreathed  her  brow  with  deathless  glory. 

FERDINAND.  Nay ! 

Spain  shall  not  weep  those  tears  of  vain  regret. 

The  man  who  calls  such  partisans  his  own 

Must  be  of  rare  and  sterling  qualities. 

Let  trusted  messengers  be  sent  at  once 

Into  the  land  to  intercept  Columbus 

And  bring  him  back  in  honor  to  our  court. 

ISABELLA. 

I  have  forestalled  thee,  Consort  of  my  realm. 
Relying  on  thy  wisdom  and  thy  justice, 
I  sent  my  couriers  when  I  was  informed 
Columbus  had  departed.     Hourly 
I  look  for  their  return  with  tidings. 

[A  bugle  signal  is  heard.] 

Hark! 

This  is  their  signal.      May  the  Virgin  grant 
Columbus  has  consented  to  return. 

[Enter  Messenger  and  Populace.] 

MESSENGER. 

The  man  Columbus  is  with  us,  awaiting 
The  pleasure  of  her  Highness  of  Castile. 

ISABELLA. 

Bid  him  approach  forthwith.     He  is  most  welcome. 

[Exit  Messenger.] 

MICHAEL  (in  his  sleep). 

By'r  Lady,  I'm  uncommon  dry ; 
Fetch  me  another  stoop  of  rye. 


FRIAR  BOYLE. 


CHAMBERLAIN. 


,    14 


Who  dares  in  presence  of  the  King 
Engage  in  drunken  roystering  ? 

My  lord,  the  fellow  is  asleep ; 

His  draught,  perchance,  was  strong  and  deep. 


[Enter  COLUMBUS,  Soldiers  and  Flower-Girls.    Columbus  kneels  before  their 
Majesties.] 

ISABELLA  and  COLUMBUS.     Duet. 

ISABELLA.  Arise,  Columbus,  boldly  cast, 

Cast  off  despondency ; 
The  King  has  recognized  at  last 
Thy  worth  and  constancy. 

COLUMBUS.  Most  gracious  Queen,  I  have  returned, 

Returned  at  thy  command ; 
To  me — by  all  reviled  and  spurned — 

Thou  stretchest  out  thy  hand ; 
Thou  stretchest  forth  thy  royal  arm 
To  shield  me  from  defeat  and  harm. 

ISABELLA.  Go  forth  and  grasp  the  leader's  wand 

To  guide  us  to  thy  promised  land. 

FERDINAND.  Take  heart,  Columbus,  let  the  past 

From  thy  remembrance  flee ; 
Henceforth,  where  Spain  prevails,  thou  hast 

Distinction  and  degree. 
Set  out,  High  Admiral,  and  land 
Our  banners  on  a  foreign  strand. 

COLUMBUS  (kneeling'). 

Once  again,  in  deep  submission, 

Let  me  on  my  bended  knee 
Thank  you  for  this  glorious  mission, 
For  this  honor's  high  degree. 

Years  of  toil  and  pleasures  banished, 
Twenty  years  of  scoff  and  scorn, 

Are  this  moment  lightly  vanished 
Like  the  haze  of  early  morn. 


15     . 

That  which  fleeting  and  dissembling, 
Evermore  defied  my  grasp — 

Fondly  greeting,  raptly  trembling — 
To  my  heart  at  last  I  clasp. 

See  me  prostrate  in  submission, 
Overwhelmed  with  gratitude 

For  the  glory  of  this  mission, 
For  this  honor's  magnitude. 

FERDINAND.  In  the  name  of  God, 

Of  Saint  Michael  and  Saint  George, 

I  dub  thee  Knight. 

Be  brave,  bold  and  loyal. 

Arise,  Don  Christopher  Columbus, 

Viceroy  and  Governor  of  all 

The  provinces  to  be  by  thee  discovered 

For  the  united  crowns  of  Castile 

And  Aragon. 

[COLUMBUS  is  invested  with  the  insignia  of  an  Admiral.] 

Aria. 

COLUMBUS.  By  Him  who  was  sent  to  perish 

For  the  human  race,  I  swear 
Sacredly  your  trust  to  cherish, 
Gallantly  this  sword  to  wear. 

I  will  pilot  Spain's  proud  galleons 
Through  vast  oceans  never  sailed  ; 

I  will  lead  her  brave  battalions 
Where  no  Christian  yet  prevailed. 

To  the  glory  of  this  nation 

Empires  from  the  s-ea  shall  rise, 

Like  another  Revelation, 

Startling,  dazzling  Europe's  eyes. 

"  Holy  Writ's  subl'm-3  prediction  " 
Then  by  Spain  shill  be  unfuii'd, 

And  our  faith's  devout  conviction 
Spread  by  her  throughout  the  world. 


16 

Treasures  will  be  gained  as  never    . 

Have  been  known  to  mortal  ken  ; 
And  the  sun  will  shine  forever, 

Never  setting,  over  Spain. 

Royal  patrons,  whose  indulgence 
Called  such  exploits  into  prime, 

You  will  dwell  in  Fame's  effulgence 
Glorified  throughout  all  time. 

TALAVERA. 

Reluctantly  I  speak,  my  Rulers  both, 

And  yet  I  speak  because  my  conscience  bids  me, 

To  caution  you  against  this  enterprise, 

At  least  against  its  present  undertaking. 

Our  treasuries  are  drained  ;  our  holy  wars 

Have  sapped  our  income  to  its  last  resources ; 

And  we  shall  even  find  it  difficult 

To  raise  such  funds  as  urgent  need  demands. 

COLUMBUS  (To  St.  Angel}. 

By  all  the  saints,  what  do  I  hear? 
Shall  my  fond  hopes  again  be  blighted  ? 

ST.  ANGEL.          Columbus,  pray,  be  of  good  cheer, 

This  difficulty  will  be  righted ; 
We'll  draw  our  cause  out  of  the  lurch,  man, 
And  disconcert  this  haughty  churchman. 

(To  their  Majesties.) 

About  these  funds,  my  Sovereigns  liege, 

There  need  be  no  uneasiness. 
Prelates  should  be  content  to  preach, 
Not  interfere  in  business. 

TALAVERA.          Audacious  Courtier,  it  is  vain 

Thine  insults  in  my  face  to  flaunt. 
In  questions  sacred  and  profane 
Our  Holy  Church  is  paramount. 

ST.  ANGEL.  Particularly  where  division 

Of  spoils  and  treasures  is  concerned, — 
The  true  cause  why  this  expedition 
The  clergy's  enmity  has  earned. 


17 


ISABELLA.    Peace,  gentlemen!  /will  supply  the  means. 
If  Aragon  is  not  prepared  to  bear 
The  outlays  of  this  contemplated  voyage, 
I  undertake  it  for  Castile  alone. 

Behold  this  diadem  of  wondrous  splendor, 
Envy  of  Kings  and  pride  of  my  domain. 

Let  it  go  forth  unto  the  money-lender 

And  by  this  pledge  the  needed  sums  obtain. 

The  sacred  emblem  of  our  royalty 

Shall  be  defiled  to  prove  our  loyalty. 

ST.  ANGEL. 

I  do  protest,  my  Queen,  thou  art  misguided ; 

There's  no  such  poverty  in  Aragon. 
The  necessary  sums  shall  be  provided  ; 

We  have  sufficient  means  to  draw  upon. 
But  unto  thee  belongs  true  greatness'  prize 
For  having  proffered  such  a  sacrifice. 

Chorus.  She  is  our  strength  and  stay ; 

Long  may  her  gentle  sway 

This  land  pervade. 
To  make  Spain  prosperous, 
Great  and  victorious, 
Unselfish,  generous, 

She  lends  her  aid. 

TALAVERA  (aside). 

The  devil  take  such  enthusiastic  fools, 
This  wily  schemer's  unsuspecting  tools. 

COLUMBUS.  My  Sovereigns,  I  am  prepared 

And  eager  to  depart ; 
If  my  advice  is  to  be  heard, 

From  Palos  let  me  start. 
There  I  have  friends  in  sailcraft  wise, 
Will  aid  us  in  this  enterprise 


18 


FERDINAND.  So  be  it,  then.     To  Palos  port, 

High  Admiral,  repair  ; 
Munition,  vessels  and  escort 

Shall  be  provided  there. 
To  guide  thee  safely  through  the  land 
We  charge  Ojeda's  trusty  band. 


ALONZO. 


My  King  and  Master  does  me  proud 

To  choose  me  for  this  task ; 
But  if  a  soldier  be  allow'd 

To  argue  or  to  ask, 
I  would  prefer  my  marching  orders 
Took  me  beyond  my  country's  borders 
Not  from  ungrateful  disaffection, 
Nor  vain  ambition's  misdirection — 
Nay — with  the  Admiral  to  share 

The  perils  of  the  main, 
And  into  foreign  lands  to  bear 

The  glorious  arms  of  Spain. 
For  me  and  those  of  my  division 
Who  fain  would  join  this  expedition 
I  crave  your  Majesty's  permission. 


FIRST  SOLDIER. 
SECOND  SOLDIER. 
THIRD  SOLDIER. 
FOURTH  SOLDIER. 
FIFTH  SOLDIER. 
SIXTH  SOLDIER. 


I  follow  where  Ojeda  leads. 
And  I. 

And  I. 

And  I. 

He  shows  the  way  to  doughty  deeds. 
By  his  side  glory's  nigh. 


MICHAEL. 


FERDINAND. 


I'm  with  ye,  boys;  the  salty  sea 
Will  help  me  overcome  my  spree. 


Unwillingly  we  miss  such  gallant  blades, 
Who  both  in  war  and  peace  are  wanted; 

But,  since  your  ranks  such  ardent  zeal  pervades, 
The  leave  of  absence  shall  be  granted. 


19 


ALONZO. 


FERDINAND. 


Soldiers. 
COLUMBUS  (Song). 


Soldiers'  Chorum. 


Ju  ANITA. 


Victoria,  comrades,  we  are  going ! 
With  gratitude,  O  gracious  King, 
And  deep  devotion's  offering 
My  heart  is  overflowing. 

Away,  my  sturdy  braves,  God  speed, 

And  Spanish  annals  fill 
With  tale  of  bold  and  daring  deed. 

All  hail,  O  King,  we  will! 


All  hail  and  welcome,  comrades  new  ! 

Then  buckle  on  your  armor, 
And  say  a  long  and  fond  adieu 

To  sister,  wife  or  charmer. 

Set  out  out  with  me  in  confidence 
For  strange  and  distant  regions, 

To  struggle  with  the  elements 
Instead  of  Moslem  legions. 

Across  privation  and  travail 
Success  and  triumph  beckon; 

And  only  those  will  sink  and  fail 
Who  hesitate  and  reckon. 

The  bugle  sounds,  the  banners  wave; 
A  glorious  goal  awaits  the  brave, 
Which  will  outrival  and  outlast 
All  great  achievements  of  the  past. 

The  bugle  sounds,  the  banners  wave ; 
A  glorious  goal  awaits  the  brave, 
Which  will  outrival  and  outlast 
All  great  achievements  of  the  past. 

Aria. 
Distress  profound  my  spirit  wooes, 

While  all  the  world  is  gay — 
Oh  misery,  to  win  and  lose 

My  love  in  one  short  day  ! 


20 

Woe  is  me! 
Gay  and  free 

Forth  he  goes ; 
While  I  see 
But  for  me 

Sorrow's  throes. 


FINALE. 

Quintet.— FERDINAND,  ISABELLA,  COLUMBUS,  ALONZO,  Ju ANITA,  and  Chorus. 

ALONZO.  Juanita,  we  must  part, 

Sweet  my  love,  farewell. 


JUANITA. 


ALONZO. 


JUANITA. 


JUANITA. 


Cruel  word  that  makes  my  heart 
With  affliction  swell. 

Be  content;  I  must  away, 
Fame  and  gold  to  earn. 

To  the  Virgin  I  will  pray 


Then  farewell 
We  must  tell. 
Heaven  keep  thee 
O'er  the  deep  sea 
Well  and  safe, 
True  and  brave. 


For  thy  safe  return. 
ALONZO. 


Then  farewell 
We  must  tell. 
Heaven  keep  thee 
In  His  mercy 
Well  and  safe, 
True  and  brave. 


COLUMBUS.  Sadness  overcomes  my  heart 

Now  I  say  farewell, 
Now  that  from  the  land  I  start 

Where  I  loved  to  dwell. 
Heart  be  stanch,  thy  fears  allay, 

Doubt  and  dread  unlearn  ; 
Dost  thou  not  the  gathering  ray 
Of  my  Star  discern  ? 
Aye,  farewell 
I  will  tell. 
Heaven  guide  us 
And  abide  us 
Well  and  safe, 
True  and  brave. 


21 


FERDINAND  AND  ISABELLA. 

Lord,  Thy  blessings  now  impart 

From  Thy  mercy's  well 
To  this  project  which  our  heart 

Yearns  to  see  excel. 
And  these  heroes  who  to-day 

With  ambition  burn, 
Watch  and  lead  upon  their  way 

To  a  safe  return. 

Now,  farewell 
We  must  tell. 
Lord,  provide  them, 
Gently  guide  them 
Well  and  safe, 
True  and  brave. 

Full  Chorus.  Lord,  with  approving  eyes 

Look  on  this  enterprise. 

Lead  them  to  fame. 
Peril  and  failure  keep 
From  those  who  sail  the  deep, 
Honor  for  Spain  to  reap 

In  Thy  hallowed  name. 

Now,  farewell 
Let  us  tell. 
Lord,  provide  them, 
Gently  guide  them 
Well  and  safe, 
True  and  brave. 

Curtain.] 


INTERLUDE. 


The  early  morning  of  October  12,  14<>2. 

COLUMBUS  asleep  in  his  cabin  on  board  his  flagship,  the  Santa  Maria. 
COLUMBIA  appears  in  an  aureole. 

COLUMBIA. 

What  light  is  this  that  rends  the  veil  asunder, 

The  ling'ring  shadows  of  oblivion's  gloom  ? 
What  forms  are  these  that  from  the  ocean  yonder 

Mysteriously  upon  my  vision  loom  ? 
My  soul  is  thrilled  by  feelings  warmer,  fonder, 

Than  have  ere  now  consoled  me  in   my  doom — 
The  air  is  ringing  as  though  God  had  spoken, 
New  life  is  springing,  and  the  spell  is  broken. 

My  spirit,  by  a  quick'ning  pulse  pervaded, 
Discerns  a  presence,  calm,  serene,  sublime, 

A  cherished  image  that  my  dreams  invaded 
As  I  lay  slumb'ring  in  the  lap  of  Time, 

A  hand  extended  by  whose  guidance  aided 
1  am  ordained  to  sunlit  heights  to  climb — 

The  mists  dissolve,  the  light  grows  brighter,  stronger 

My  champion  lives,  he  is  a  myth  no  longer. 

I  recognize  thee  who  art  come  to  woo  me, 
Dauntless  defender  of  my  sacred  cause  ; 

An  outcast's  curse  no  longer  shall  pursue  me, 

Nor  mankind,  trembling,  on  my  threshold  pause; 

For  ere  the  day  night's  curtain,  drear  and  gloomy, 
With  rosy  fingers  from  my  realm  withdraws, 

The  joyful  tidings  will  ring  out  to  heaven : 

Columbus  to  the  world  a  world  hath  given  ! 


As  goddesses  of  old  to  earth  descended 

The  destiny  of  mortal  men  to  share, 
So  shall  my  fame,  with  thine  forever  blended, 

The  radiant  trace  of  thine  achievement  wear. 
I  welcome  thee,  with  longing  arms  extended, 

In  proud  expectancy  thy  name  to  bear — 
Columbus,  chosen  one  among  the  mortals, 
Columbia  greets  thee  at  her  empire's  portals. 

Bestir  thyself,  for  lo  !  the  day  is  breaking 
That  is  to  be  by  unborn  millions  blest, 
Who,  ignominious  servitude  forsaking, 

Shall  find  the  home  of  freedom  in  the  West. 
The  vapors  rise,  the  earth  from  sleep  is  waking, 

The  sunlight  floods  the  snow-capped  mountain  crest- 
Fulfillment,  glory,  empire  are  at  hand — 
Awake,  arise,  for  thou  hast  conquered. 

I A  sailor's  voice  from  without.] 

Land  ! 

[COLUMBUS  awakes,  rises  aud  sinks  on  his  knees  in  silent  prayer.] 
[Curtain.] 


II. 


The  island  of  Guanahani,  or  San  Salvador,  on  October  12,  1492. 


[Enter  JUANITA  in  Indian  dress,  ANAKAONA  and  Indian  girls.] 

Duet  and  Chorus. 
ANAKAONA.  Give  me  back  my  shell  of  paint. 

JUANITA.  Nay,  I'll  not  return  it. 

FIRST  INDIAN  GIRL. 

Give  it  her  or  she  will  faint. 


JUANITA. 


ANAKAONA. 


JUANITA. 


Chorus. 


I  regret  to  learn  it, 
But  I'll  not  return  it. 

Maid,  my  husband  comes  to-day; 

How,  dost  thou  suppose, 
Can  I  without  paint  array 

Forehead,  eyes  and  nose? 

Do  not  use  the  crimson  shell, 

Follow  my  advice, 
For  thou  lookst  surpassing  well 

With  unpainted  eyes. 

Listen  to  her  impudence! 

Her  advice  indeed! 
With  the  men  thine  eloquence 

May  perchance  succeed. 


25 


ANAKAONA . 

Here  comes  a  learned  and  pious  priest, 

And  wisest  of  all  judges; 
He  is  the  ladies'  friend  at  least 

And  takes  no  bribes  nor  pledges. 

[Enter  BUHITI.] 

BUHITI.  Good  morning,  ladies,  I'm  elate 

And  greet  you  witb — emotion ; 
You  are  quite  early,  or  I'm  late 
Returned  from  my — devotion. 

ANAKAONA.  Buhiti,  foremost  of  thy  race, 

Decide  in  this  important  case  ! 

BUHITI.  A  case  so  early  in  the  morning? 

Without  a  summons,  brief  or  warning' 

ANAKAONA.         Alas,  there  is  no  time  to  waste, 

Or  else  I  would  not  make  such  haste. 
This  foreign  maid  of  aspect  quaint 

Has  robbed  me  of  my  shell, 
Containing  bright  and  precious  paint, 

And  hid  it  but  too  well. 
Although  I  threaten,  I  implore, 
The  wench  will  not  my  paint  restore. 

BUHITI.  The  case  is  difficult  and  fangled, 

But  soon  I'll  have  it  disentangled. 
Now,  prisoner  before  the  bar, 
Is  what  she  said  the  truth  so  far? 

JUANITA.  Aye,  aye,  my  lord,  it  is  quite  true. 

BUHITI.  Then,  why  dost  thou  this  course  pursue? 

JUANITA.  Because  I  could  not  see  it  done, 

The  way  she  put  that  crimson  on. 
If  to  enhance  her  charms  she  seeks 
She  only  ought  to  paint  her  cheeks ; 
For  in  the  land  where  I  was  born 
The  ladies  thus  their  face  adorn. 


BUHITI.  The  case  is  clear — I  understand, — 

But  this  is  not  thy  native  land  ; 
The  evidence  suggests  to  me 
That  we  are  in  Guanahani, 
And  in  Guanahani  you 
Must  do  as  Guanahanians  do. 
This,  therefore,  is  my  sentence : 
To  teach  thee  due  repentance 
And  make  thee  with  our  customs  well  acquainted, 
Thy  nose  and  eyes  and  forehead  shall  be  painted. 
That  this  decision  be  well  executed 
The  plaintiff  and  these  ladies  are  deputed. 

JUANITA  and  Chorus. 

Chorus.  Hail,  Buhiti,  just  and  wise! 

FIRST  INDIAN  GIRL. 

I  will  undertake  her  eyes. 

JUANITA  .  Thy  derision  I  despise ! 

Choni*.  Never  better  judge  arose! 

SECOND  INDIAN  GIRL. 

This  bold  stroke  is  for  her  nose. 

JUANITA.  Shame  thine  eyes  and  lips  should  close! 

Chorus.  He  observes  his  sacred  vow  ! 

THIRD  INDIAN  GIRL. 

This  shall  grace  her  noble  brow. 

JUANITA.  Nay,  enough  !    Unhand  me  now  ! 

Chorux.  Evermore  his  praise  we'll  sing ! 

FOURTH  INDIAN  GIRL. 

I  must  try  another  ring. 


27 


JUANITA.  Hush,  begone,  thou  hateful  thing! 


Chorus.  Maiden,  now  thou  art  prepared, 

But,  we  pray,  do  not  get  scared, 
Nor  with  dismal  horror  shiver 
Shouldst  thou  pass  a  placid  river, 
Or  behold  thy  fair  reflection 
In  a  shining  metal  section. 

JUANITA.  Heavens,  I  must  be  a  sight, 

Barbarous  ungainly  fright  ! 

To  their  base  malignity 

I  owe  this  indignity. 
Horrors,  if  my  lover 
Should  me  thus  discover  ! 

[An  Indian  drum  signal.] 

BUHITI.  Children  of  this  fair  domain, 

Dwellers  in  this  smiling  plain, 
From  your  quarrels  now  abstain, 

For  your  Chief  approaches. 
From  the  mountain  heights  descending 
Where  wild  peaks  the  clouds  are  rending 
Hitherward  his  step  is  bending 

Lordly  Caonabo, 
In  our  worship  to  partake 
And  Cassava's  sacred  cake 
Solemnly  with  us  to  break  — 

Pious  Caonabo. 
See,  amid  his  warriors'  lances, 
Mighty  chieftain,  he  advances  ; 
Welcome  him  with  song  and  dances  — 
Warlike  Caonabo. 

[Enter  CAONABO  and  Indian  warriors.] 


Chorus. 


Keeper  of  the  Golden  Hoard, 

Caonabo,  Caonabo, 
Guanahani's  dauntless  lord, 
Terror  of  the  Carib  horde  : 

Welcome  Caonabo ! 
We  are  thine  with  limb  and  breath, 
Faithful  subjects  unto  death. 


23 

CAONABO  (Song.) 

From  the  crags  of  barren  mountains, 
From  the  rivers'  crystal  fountains, 
Where  the  soil  with  gold  is  teeming, 
Where  the  eagle's  brood  is  screaming, 
We  return  in  festal  train 
To  the  valley's  fertile  plain, 
Where  eternal  spring  is  smiling, 
Playfully  our  days  beguiling, 
To  perform  our  ancient  rite 
In  joint  worship  to  unite, 
And  Cassava's  sacred  cake 
Solemnly  with  you  to  break. 

Chorus,    Warriors. 

We  return  in  festal  train 
To  the  valley's  fertile  plain 
To  perform  our  ancient  rite 
In  joint  worship  to  unite, 
And  Cassava's  sacred  cake 
Solemnly  with  you  to  break. 

Indians. 

They  return  in  festal  train 
To  the  valley's  fertile  plain 
To  perform  our  ancient  rite 
In  joint  worship  to  unite, 
And  Cassava's  sacred  cake 
Solemnly  with  us  to  break. 

All  hail,  Caonabo ! 

INDIAN     DANCE. 

CAONABO  (observing  Juanita,  to  BUHITIJ. 

Who  is  this  maid  of  modest  mien 
And  wondrous  eyes  of  lambent  sheen  ? 
By  my  ancestors'  bones,  I  ween 
Such  beauty  I  have  never  seen! 


29 


BUHITI.  She  is  a  stranger  ;  whence  she  came — 

Her  native  land — she  will  not  name. 
We  found  her  cast  upon  the  shore 
Insensible  and  bruised  and  sore, 
In  foreign  garb,  and  still  the  trace 
Of  tossing  seas  on  form  and  face. 

A  sweet  and  grateful  maid  she  proved, 
By  all  the  men  revered  and  loved ; 
Although  the  women,  I  regret, 
Have  not  contrived  to  like  her  yet. 

She  quickly  learned  our  speech  and  ways 
But  to  our  Zemes  never  prays. 

ANAKAONA  (aside). 

Perdition  !  Does  the  hoyden  dare 
My  husband's  senses  to  ensnare  ? 

CAONABO  (to  Juanita). 

Mysterious  maiden,  fair  to  see, 
Thou  hast  my  heart  enraptured. 

Pray,  to  my  wigwam  follow  me — 
The  sweetest  prize  yet  captured. 


JUANITA. 


Redoubted  chieftain,  not  so  fast : 

My  lot  is  here  to  tarry, 
And  while  my  youth  and  beauty  last 

I  do  not  wish  to  marry. 


ANAKAONA.  My  Lord,  beware,  it  is  not  safe 

To  meddle  with  this  foreign  waif. 


CAONABO. 


(To  Juanita.) 


Anakaona,  be  so  kind 

Thine  own  affairs  alone  to  mind. 
Consider  lest  it  be  too  late 
And  tresses  tinged  with  rime. 


JUANITA. 


My  true-love  will  avert  such  fate 
And  rescue  me  in  time. 


30 

ANAKAONA.  Now,  Caonabo,  'pon  my  life ! 

Thou  wilt  not  take  another  wife  ? 

CAONABO.  I  am  the  Cacique  and  can  take 

As  many  as  I  please. 

ANAKAONA.  Then  be  content  thy  choice  to  make 

At  least  from  among  these. 

[Pointing  to  her  companions.] 

CAONABO.  And  why? 

ANAKAONA.  Because  the  outcast  there 

Does  not  deserve  thy  name  to  bear. 

Trio:  Ju ANITA,  CAONABO  and  ANAKAONA. 

JUANITA.  ANAKAONA. 

Now,  by  thy  leave,  most  virtuous  dame,  Oh,  spare  me  thy  civility! 

From  very  decent  folks  I  came ;  No  doubt  from  the  nobility. 

And  though  I've  not  the  least  ambition  How  modest,  to  be  sure ! 

To  share  thine  enviable  position,  It  would  not  be  secure. 

I  beg  of  you  to  understand  Quite  plainly,  I  declare  ! 

That  I  hail  from  a  glorious  land,  They  should  have  kept  thee  there. 

CAONABO. 
Forbear 
To  tear 

Each  other's  hair. 
Be  wise 
And  spare 
Each  other's  eyes ! 

JUANITA.  And  sailed  the  deep  with  heroes  brave, 

Whom  thou  perchance  wilt  see, 
For  they  have  weathered  wind  and  wave 
To  make  discovery. 

True  my  love,  on  land  or  sea, 
Hasten  to  deliver  me ; 
Still  this  longing,  heal  the  aching 
Of  my  heart,  asleep  and  waking ! 

True  my  love,  where'er  thou  be, 
God  protect  and  comfort  thee ! 


31 

CAONABO.  Who  may  this  bold  lover  be 

This  sweet  maid  prefers  to  me  ? 
I  for  whose  love  hearts  are  breaking, 
At  whose  challenge  men  are  quaking — 
If  the  wight  I  ever  see 
Terrible  his  fate  shall  be. 

ANAKAONA.  Thus  she  dares  to  talk  to  me, 

Foremost  in  Guanahani ! 
Though  with  rage  my  nerves  are  shaking 
Caonabo  is  not  making 

Any  effort  that  she  be 
Yielding  and  polite  to  me  ! 

FIRST  INDIAN  (pointing  to  the  sea). 

Cacique,  hasten  and  behold 
What  the  morning  did  unfold  ! 

SECOND  INDIAN.          Guanahani's  peaceful  bight 

Was  invaded  in  the  night 
By  huge  monsters  of  the  deep 
Risen  while  we  were  asleep. 

GUACA.  Nay,  not  monsters  of  the  ocean, — 

These  are  dwellings  full  of  motion, 
Roofs  with  human  beings  swarming, 
Some  descending,  others  arming, 
Strangely  clad  in  various  manners, 
Wearing  shields  and  carrying  banners. 
Now  they  enter  their  canoes, 
From  stout  ropes  they  cast  them  loose ; 
Now  with  stroke  of  sweeping  oar 
They  make  straightway  for  our  shore ! 

CAONABO  (Song.~)    Then  in  proud  array  of  battle 
These  invaders  we  will  face : 
Sound  the  war-cry,  roll  the  rattle, 

Speed  the  arrow,  swing  the  mace ! 
Guanahani's  verdant  plain 
Blood  of  foreign  foe  shall  stain ! 


32 


GUACA  (Song~).     Warlike  chieftain,  quench  thine  ardor, 

Quell  thy  spirit,  fierce  and  bold : 
To  defeat  this  host  is  harder 
Than  to  rout  the  Caribs'  fold. 
To  our  forest  let  us  hie 
And  upon  these  strangers  spy, 
Watch  their  movements  from  afar, 
If  they  purport  peace  or  war. 


CAONABO  (Song"). 


Chorus. 


Though  my  spirit  is  afire, 
Calmer  counsel  shall  decide. 

Warriors,  to  the  wood  retire 
And  my  coming  there  abide. 


To  the  forest  let  us  fly 

And  upon  these  strangers  spy, 

Watch  their  movements  from  afar, 
If  they  purport  peace  or  war. 
Zemes,  Zemes,  speak  for  us, 
Life  and  freedom  seek  for  us 
At  the  unseen  Gate 
Of  the  Spirit  Great 
Who,  almighty  and  alone, 
Rules  from  His  eternal  throne. 

[Kxeunt  BUHITI,  GUACA  and  chorus.] 
[A  bugle  blast  is  heard.] 

Trio. 
JUANITA.  Hark,  the  bugle's  martial  blast 

Lustily  the  air  is  rending ; 
True  my  love  is  come  at  last 

And  my  days  of  doubt  are  ending. 

CAONABO.  To  the  horn's  defiant  blast 

Her  responsive  ear  is  bending ; 
Now  it  will  be  clear  at  last 

To  whose  kiss  her  lips  are  tending. 

AN  A  KAON  A.  By  the  way  she  lists  aghast 

These  sounds  she  is  comprehending; 
'Tis  her  lover  come  at  last 

And  my  husband's  fun  is  ending. 

[Exeunt.] 


33 


INTERMEZZO. 


[Enter  ALONZO  and  Ju ANITA.] 


ALONZO. 

JU  ANITA. 

ALONZO. 

JUANITA. 

ALONZO. 

JUANITA. 

ALONZO. 
JUANITA. 


ALONZO. 


JUANITA. 


ALONZO. 


Among  men,  an  interloper, 
On  the  ocean  thou  hast  sailed ! 

I  admit,  it  was  improper, 

But  my  love  at  last  prevailed, 

Juanita ! 
Dear  Alonzo ! 

Why  then  on  the  sister  ship, 

Not  on  mine,  didst  service  offer? 

Why  ?     Because  my  sistership 
Thus  would  no  disturbance  suffer. 

How  didst  find  me  as  a  brother  ? 

Cold, — a  brother  to  the  letter ; 

Speaking  candidly  :  the  other 
Character  becomes  thee  better. 

Duet. 

Therefore  let  me  as  the  lover 

Take  thee  to  my  heart  once  more, 

And  those  lips  with  kisses  cover 
Which  I  should  have  had  before. 

Sweetheart,  is  thy  passion's  fire 
In  this  clime  for  me  the  same  ? 

Am  I  still  thy  heart's  desire 

As  thou  didst  at  home  proclaim  ? 

Does  the  sun  lack  light  and  fire  ? 

Can  Life  pulse  and  breath  disclaim  ? 
I  must  love  thee  and  admire 

Ev'ry where,  my  savage  dame. 


34 

Both.  Love  requited 

Reunited, 
Soon  forgets 
Its  regrets. 
Life  assumes  its  warmest  hue 

For  all  lovers  who  are  true. 

[Exeunt.  J 

[Enter  MICHAEL.] 

MICHAEL.  What  ho,  Alonzo  !     He  is  gone, 

Leaves  me  in  foreign  land  alone. 

[BUHITI  and  Indians  are  seen  peeping  out  from  the  right.] 

I  thought  I  saw — nay,  I  was  dreaming — 
A  face  through  yonder  foliage  gleaming. — 

The  moment  that  our  boat  was  tied 

A  savage  maid  Alonzo  spied, 
And  straightway  disappeared  the  twain — 
Just  as  he  did  at  home  in  Spain. 

[Indians  are  again  seen.] 

I'm  sure  a  pair  of  eyes  was  blinking 
In  yonder  bush.     Had  I  been  drinking 
Old  Harry  might  my  sight  distort, 
But  in  our  ships  the  wine  ran  short. 

[Indians  as  before.] 

I  wish  the  Admiral  had  sent 
Some  other  one  upon  this  scent ; 
There's  something  in  the  atmosphere 
That  makes  me  feel  exceeding  queer. 

I  Indians  as  before.] 

Saint  Patrick,  help  !     Unearthly  faces 
Pop  in  and  out  from  hundred  places. 

I  think  I'll  cut  this  matter  short 

And  to  Columbus  make  report. 

[EnterjBuHiTi.] 

It  is  too  late  ; 

I  must  await 

This  "brick"-a-brac  complexion 
Which  comes  in  my  direction. 

My  salutation,  crimson  friend. 
BUHITI.  Hanal  ek  chi  cab. 


35 


MICHAEL.  I'm  sure  I  do  not  comprehend. 

'Tis  clear,  this  tongue  I  must  forego. 
Como  le  va,  amigo  mio  ? 

BUHITI.  Uoc  pol  hool. 

MICHAEL.  Perchance  the  Gallic  tongue  will  do : 

Monsieur,  comment  vous  portez-vous  ? 

BUHITI.  Mehen,  hanal  chechitch  oc  lakpal. 

MICHAEL.  Not  French?     Then  I'll  attempt  a  line 

Of  what  they  speak  across  the  Rhine  : 
Mein  Lieber,  lass  das  Saufen  sein. 

BUHITI.  Cab  chi  noli  ek  quetzal. 

MICHAEL.  Now,  this  is  most  embarrassing ; 

Perhaps  he'll  understand  me  sing  : 
(Sings.)  La  donna  e  mobile 

Qual  piuma  al  vento — 


BUHITI. 
MICHAEL. 


Chfiak  u  ha  kin  chaiic  u  ha       (runs  away.) 


He  disappears  !     My  heart,  rejoice  ! — 
Still  people  say  I  have  no  voice. 

[BUHITI  returns  with  Indian  warriors.] 

By  Heaven,  he  returns  and  brings 
A  howling  mob  of  savage  things ! 

[MICHAEL  is  surrounded.] 

INDIANS.  Ek  chi  hanal ! 

MICHAEL.  Now,  gentlemen,  remember,  pray, 
INDIANS.  Cab  noh  lakpal ! 

MICHAEL.  That  you  are  many,  I  am  one ; 
INDIANS.  Kin  chfiiic  pol ! 

MICHAEL.  And  if  you  treat  me  in  this  way 


36 

INDIANS.  Ha  u  hool ! 

MICHAEL.  I'll  have  to  stop  your  fun. 

INDIANS.  Uoc  melien  chechitch  ! 

MICHAEL.  By  the  Virgin !     I'm  forlorn 

If  I  do  not  blow  my  horn. 

[Enter  ALONZO  and  JUANITA.] 

ALONZO  (drawing  his  sword). 

Michael  is  prompt,  I  must  allow : 
He  has  already  found  a  row. 

MICHAEL.  Alonzo,  spare  not  arm  nor  breath ! 

These  heathens  tickle  me  to  death. 

ALONZO.  Courage,  man,  thy  cutlass  wield, 

In  a  trice  we'll  have  the  field. 

JUANITA.  I  will  run  the  Chief  to  call, 

Else  misfortune  will  befall. 

[Exit.  | 

FIRST  INDIAN  (attacking  Michael}. 

Turey  hoc  quetzal ! 

MICHAEL.  No  you  don't,  my  pal. 

SECOND  INDIAN.     Kin  pol  hanac ! 
MICHAEL.  We'll  clean  out  the  pack ! 

[Enter  JUANITA,  CAONABO,  ANAKAONA  and  train.] 

CAONABO.  Ho,  warriors,  peace! 

Let  the  combat  cease  ! 
These  interlopers  I  will  teach 
What  duty  to  my  state  is  due! 

JUANITA.  Attempt  not,  Cacique,  I  beseech, 

This  futile  combat  to  renew  ! 


37 

These  strangers  are  my  countrymen, 

Come  hither  from  afar 
In  search  of  conquest  and  of  gain — 

Dread  heroes  reared  in  war. 

Your  weapons  are  of  no  avail 
Against  their  swords  and  lances, 

And  from  their  dress  of  shining  mail 
The  arrow,  harmless,  glances. 

They  serve  a  King  in  power  great, 

But  greater  is  our  God 
Who  made  the  world  and  rules  men's  fate 

All  ways  on  land  and  flood. 

Our  King  obey,  our  God  invoke 

In  piety  profound, 
That  not  oppression's  dreaded  yoke 

Will  bow  you  to  the  ground. 

Aria. 

ANAKAONA  Tis  the  truth  the  maid  has  spoken ; 

Hearken,  ere  you  strike  a  blow, 
Ere  the  peace  again  be  broken, 
To  my  tale  of  long  ago. 

Through  the  flight  of  untold  ages 
There  exists  a  prophecy, 

Uttered  by  forgotten  sages, 

That  this  isle  would  conquered  be 

By  a  race  of  bearded  strangers, 
Fair  of  skin  and  tall  of  form, 

Skilled  in  warfare,  fond  of  dangers, 
And  relentless  as  the  storm. 

They  have  come — the  old  prediction 
Thus  a  truth  proves  in  the  end  ; 

[Enter  COLUMBUS,  FRIAR  BOYLE  and  retinue.J 

They  have  come — does  it  affliction, 
Does  it  happiness  portend  ? 


38 

[COLUMBUS  and  train  come  forward.] 

COLUMBUS.      San  Salvador  this  island  shall  be  named, 

(Song.)        Upon  whose  shores  our  doubts  and  terrors  ended  ; 
Here  let  us  kneel,  here  be  our  thanks  proclaimed 
To  Him  whose  aid  our  enterprise  attended. 

Prayer.  Heavenly  Father, 

In  might  unbounded, 
By  light  surrounded 

Of  serene  beatitude, 
Graciously  gather 

Sacrifice  of  gratitude 
From  the  lips  of  those 
Whom  to  safe  repose 
Thou  hast  led 
Through  the  bed 
Of  the  ocean's 
Vast  commotions, 
Over  reefs  and  through  the  squall, 
Past  the  lurking  dangers  all 
Which  in  unknown  waters  hide — 
Our  Protector  and  our  Guide, 
Hallowed  be  Thy  glorious  name, 
Sung  Thine  everlasting  fame. 

Song,  ALONZO  and  chorus. 

Gloria,  gloria  in  excelsis, 
Hallowed  be  Thy  name,  O  God, 

Who  hast  led  us,  in  Thy  mercy, 
Safely  through  the  boundless  flood  ; 
Hallowed  be  Thy  glorious  name, 
Sung  Thine  everlasting  fame, 
Gloria,  gloria  in  excelsis ! 

Aided  by  thy  guiding  hand, 
We  have  gained  this  foreign  strand, 
Where  Thine  Revelation's  light 
Shall  dispel  the  pagan  night ; 
Gloria,  gloria  in  excelsis  ! 


God,  our  Father,  shield  us  further, 
Keep  from  us  defeat  and  murder  ; 
But  if  in  Thy  cause  we  fall 
Save  us  from  perdition's  pall. 
Gloria,  gloria  in  excelsis ! 

COLUMBUS  Brave  Hidalgos,  solemnly 

Let  us  mourn  in  prone  devotion 
A  companion's  memory 

Whom  we  lost  upon  the  ocean. 

Gentle  Juan,  our  heart's  delight, 
Who  fell  headlong  from  the  mast, 

And  was  swept  past  aid  and  sight 
By  the  current  fierce  and  fast. 

ALONZO.  Stay,  there  is  no  need  of  mourning  : 

Look  upon  this  savage  dame 
Who,  the  aid  of  vessel  scorning, 
Lately  to  this  island  came. 

MICHAEL.  Juan !    Now,  by  the  Holy  Virgin ! 

Didst  thou  beat  us,  forward  urchin  ? 

COLUMBUS.  Heaven's  wonder !     Thou  wert  saved  ? 

JUANITA.  Saved  and  cast  upon  this  shore, 

And  the  savages  behaved 
As  unto  a  friend  of  yore. 

COLUMBUS.  God  was  with  thee,  boy !     But  stay- 

Why  is  female  garb  around  thee? 

JUANITA  (embarrassed). 

Truly,  I  can  hardly  say — 

Thus  they  dressed  me  when  they  found  me. 

COLUMBUS.  Juan  a  woman,  and  restored  to  us ! 

Lord,  Thy  ways  are  wise  and  marvelous. 

MICHAEL.       Eh  !  Juan  a  woman  ?     Help,  my  strength  is  failing ! 


40 


A  SOLDIER  (supporting  him). 

Art  starved  because  there  is  no  wine  about  ? 

MICHAEL.       Alas,  that  with  a  woman  I've  been  sailing 
For  many  moons  and  never  found  it  out. 

COLUMBUS.  The  beauty  of  these  Indian  isles, 

Which  Marco  Polo's  pen  extols, 
At  last  upon  our  vision  smiles 

And  with  enchantment  fills  our  souls. 

Behold  the  race  whom  Heaven  chose 
To  dwell  in  this  delightful  clime. 

FRIAR  BOYLE.        A  curse  upon  these  savage  foes, 

These  grovelers  in  pagan  slime ! 

JUANITA.  Devoted  friar,  curb  thy  zeal 

And  do  not  grow  excited — 
These  savages  are  true  as  steel, 
Although  they  are  benighted. 

COLUMBUS  (to  Friar  Boyle). 

Those  who  proclaim  God's  word  and  deed 
Should  not  on  curses  found  their  creed. 
Where  bitterness  and  ruth  have  failed 
Persuasive  kindness  oft  prevailed. 
(To  Higuenamota.) 

I  greet  thee  gently,  Indian  maid, 

The  first  one  in  this  foreign  land — 
Nay,  do  not  shrink,  be  not  afraid, 
And  let  me  kiss  thy  slender  hand. 

[Replaces  striugsof  glass  beads  and  bells  around  her  neck.] 

Upon  thy  comely  form  I  place 

These  toys  the  savage  mind  holds  dear ; 

Go  forth  and  tell  thy  timid  race 
To  cast  away  distrust  and  fear. 

Chorus.  Let  us  see  the  things  he  gave  thee, 

Precious  gifts  from  Heaven  come  J 
Stranger,  may  the  Spirit  save  thee 
Long  upon  our  earth  to  roam ! 


41 


CAONABO  (to  Guacci). 

My  soul  is  torn  by  doubts  and  fears 

Upon  which  course  to  seize — 
Resistance,  strife,  defeat  and  tears, 

Or  slavery  and  peace  ? 

GUACA.  O  Caonabo,  ere  perdition 

Engulf  thy  subjects  and  thy  state, 
Obey  the  lesson  of  tradition 
And  bow  to  the  decree  of  fate. 
Listen  to  thy  people's  voice, 
Let  submission  be  thy  choice. 

CAONABO  (kneeling  before  Columbus). 

Be  it  then  !     Guaraiquina, 
Chieftain  of  victorious  heroes, 
Guanahani's  people  offer 
Peace  and  friendship  and  submission. 

I,  their  Chieftain  Caonabo, 
Place  the  sacred  Belt  of  Wampum 
In  the  hands  of  Guamiquina 
As  a  token  of  our  faith. 

[He  surrenders  the  Wampum  Belt  to  COLUMBUS.] 

COLUMBUS.  Rise  in  peace,  Chief  Caonabo, 

In  the  name  of  those  who  sent  me 
I  accept  the  vows  of  friendship 
Of  thyself  and  of  thy  tribe. 

Reign  in  peace  and  give  the  white  man 
But  thy  countenance  and  shelter, 
And  while  I  have  voice  and  power 
Gladness  shall  pervade  this  isle. 

[COLUMBUS  seizing  the    standard  of  Castile.] 

COLUMBUS.       By  the  grace  of  God, 

In  the  name  of  their  Most  Catholic  Majesties 

I  take  possession  of  this  land, 

And  proclaim  the  sway  of  Spain's  dominion 

Throughout  its  extent. 

Spaniards,  to  me,  Viceroy  and  Representative 
Of  Ferdinand  and  Isabella, 
Swear  allegiance ! 


42 


FRIAR  BOYLE.  By  the  Holy  Host, 

In  the  name  of  the  Father, 
The  Son  and  the  Ghost, 
Around  me  gather 
And  swear. 

Chorus  of  SPANIARDS.          We  swear  ! 
INDIANS  (Imitating).  We  swear! 

FRIAR  BOYLE.  To  uphold  and  obey 

And  acknowledge  the  sway 
Of  Columbus,  our  leader, 
Who  is  placed  in  command 
By  the  gracious  hand 
Of  our  rulers  of  Spain. 
And  may  the  seceder 
Endure  the  pain 
To  rebels  shown 
Against  the  crown. 

Chorus  of  SPANIARDS.          We  swear ! 
INDIANS  (imitating).  We  swear! 

Aria. 

HIGUENAMOTA.  Hail,  all  hail,  Guamiquina, 

Chieftain  of  victorious  heroes ! 
From  the  azure  fields  of  Heaven, 
From  the  realm  of  the  Great  Spirit 
Thou  hast  come  to  bring  us  blessings, 
To  bring  joy  upon  this  earth. 
Follow  us  into  our  wigwams, 
Shield  us  from  distress  and  illness, 
Save  us  from  discord  and  hatred ; 
Plant  the  radiant  joys  of  Heaven 
In  our  hearts  and  on  our  hearths. 
Guamiquina,  Guamiquina, 
Chieftain  of  victorious  heroes ! 


43 

FINALE. 

Chorus  of  SPANIARDS. 

Through  pagan  darkness  breaks  sacred  light, 

The  light  of  Sublime  Revelation, 
Subdued  is  the  Evil  Spirit  of  Night 

And  a  people  saved  from  damnation. 
Broadcast  shall  the  seed  of  our  faith  be  sown 
To  the  glory  of  God  and  the  Spanish  Crown. 

The  land  that  we  sought  amid  perils  untold, 
The  dream  of  the  age,  is  discovered, 

The  curtain  of  mystery  is  unroll'd 

And  a  World  from  oblivion  recovered. 

The  voice  of  Fame  will  our  merits  extol 

Who  through  trials  and  dangers  have  reached 
this  goal. 

But  foremost  of  all,  renown  is  due 

To  our  leader  of  noble  ambition, 
Who  braved  fierce  seas  and  a  fiercer  crew 

Till  he  gazed  on  his  realized  vision. 
Columbus,  all  hail !    Undying  glory 
Will  cling  to  thy  name  in  song  and  story! 

Chorus  of  INDIANS. 

Like  harbingers  of  celestial  light, 

Like  bearers  of  Heaven's  salvation, 
They  have  come  to  us  in  the  silent  night, 

These  men  of  a  powerful  nation. 
Our  brows  are  bent  in  worship  prone 
To  these  conquerors  from  a  distant  zone. 

The  word  is  fulfilled  of  the  sage  of  old — 

The  tradition  that  over  us  hovered  ; 
By  a  race  of  strangers,  fair  and  bold, 

Our  quiet  isle  is  discovered. 
The  voice  of  Fame  will  their  merits  extol 
Who  through  trials  and  dangers  have  reached  this  goal. 


44 


But  foremost  of  all,  renown  is  due 
To  their  Chieftain  of  noble  condition, 

Who  cheered  our  wavering  hearts  anew 
In  the  hour  of  fear  and  suspicion. 

Columbus,  all  hail !     Undying  glory 

Will  cling  to  thy  name  in  song  and  story ! 


OF  THB 

UNIVERSITY 


OF  THK 

UNIVERSITY 


